Academic Adjustments

Such modifications to the academic requirements as are necessary to ensure that such requirements do not discriminate or have the effect of discriminating, on the basis of [disability] against a qualified … applicant or student [with a disability]. Academic requirements that the recipient can demonstrate are essential to the instruction being pursued by such student or to any directly related licensing requirement will not be regarded as discriminatory within the meaning of this section.

Modifications to academic requirements or academic adjustments may include:

a) changes in the length of time permitted for the completion of degree requirements

b) substitution of specific courses required for the completion of degree requirements

c) adaptation of the manner in which specific courses are conducted.

d) reduced course load

e) extended time on tests

f) provision of auxiliary aids and services

Auxiliary aids and services

- defined in the federal Section 504 regulations at 34 C.F.R. § 104.44(d), and in the

Title II regulations at 28 C.F.R. § 35.104.

a) note-takers

b) readers

c) recording device

d) sign language interpreters

e) screen-readers

f) voice recognition and other adaptive software or hardware for computers and other devices designed to ensure the participation of students with impaired sensory, manual or speaking skills in an institution’s programs and activities.

Restrictions: Institutions are not required to provide:

- personal devices and services such as attendants

- individually prescribed devices, such as eyeglasses

- readers for personal use or study

- other services of a personal nature, such as tutoring

If institutions offer tutoring to the general student population, however, they must ensure that tutoring services are also available to students with disabilities.

If a student is deemed eligible to get state Vocational Rehabilitation services, the VR agency may provide auxiliary aids and services to support that individual’s postsecondary education and training.